Gaiman has refuted both sets of allegations.
Both women stated in the podcast "Master: the allegations against Neil Gaiman" that they were in consensual relationships with Gaiman when the assaults allegedly took place. Scarlett, aged 23, alleged that Gaiman sexually assaulted her in 2022 shortly after hiring her as a nanny for his child. She accused him of participating in "rough and degrading penetrative sexual acts" with her and provided Tortoise with "contemporaneous messages, notes" that she says corroborate her claims.
Gaiman maintains that the relationship was consensual and lasted for three weeks, stating it did not progress beyond heavy petting. He has emphatically denied all accusations of abusive conduct.
The second woman, identified only as K., recounted meeting Gaiman at a book signing in 2003 when she was 18 years old. She claimed they started a relationship when she was 20 and Gaiman was 40. She alleged that at times, Gaiman subjected her to painful sexual experiences that she did not desire or find pleasurable.
Gaiman has completely denied these allegations, describing them as "disturbing."
Tortoise stated that they acknowledge Gaiman's belief that K's allegations stem from regret over their relationship and that Scarlett was experiencing a condition linked to false memories during their relationship. However, Tortoise asserted that Gaiman's account is contradicted by Scarlett's medical records and medical history.
In addition to refuting both allegations, Gaiman has stated that New Zealand police declined his offer to assist with the 2022 claim, suggesting to him that the claim lacks strength. Authorities informed Tortoise that they have made several attempts to interview key individuals as part of their investigation, which is still ongoing.
The Tortoise podcast is hosted by Rachel Johnson, who is the younger sister of Boris Johnson, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Katie Gunning, previously with the BBC, and Paul Caruana Galizia are the producers of the podcast.
SOURCE: The Wrap